An architectural competition was launched in May 2024. A total of 94 projects were submitted, of which five were selected for a more detailed presentation. The proposal by architecture firm Giusto Van Campenhout and artist Michel François convinced the jury, which met on 23 August:

"The project, which is at the interface between artistic intervention and architectural design, is simple, clear, realistic and functional. It creates a strong visual experience in the centre of the Horta Hall, while respecting the existing architecture, and invites the public to enter the Horta Hall. The collaboration with artist Michel François is seen as a natural extension of Bozar's identity."

The Centre for Fine Arts will finance the project with its own funds, in line with the new artistic vision of Christophe Slagmuylder, CEO and artistic director of Bozar:

"Hospitality is one of the main pillars of Bozar's renewed vision. In dialogue with Victor Horta's architecture, the project by the architecture bureau Giusto Van Campenhout, in collaboration with artist Michel François, encourages encounters and creates a visual proposal that is both understated and daring. At the heart of the Palace of Fine Arts, the Horta Hall will play a connecting role."

The chosen project consists of three elements:

• A light tent,
• A carpet that mimics the marble floor design of the Horta Hall,
• Circular produced furniture, with colours refined to match the Palace's existing colour palette.

The different elements of the project are modular, which is essential to meet the diverse functions of this hall (reception, catering, performances, workshops, room rental, etc.).

The laureates:
"The project proposes three installations in Bozar's large Horta Hall, which allow the space to transform itself depending on the different activities taking place there. Throughout the day, the hall changes and evolves like an opera. Three installations for a triple promise: adaptability, habitability and acoustic comfort."

The winning team consists of the architectural firm Giusto Van Campenhout (Nelson Van Campenhout and Santiago Giusto) and artist Michel François. They plan to collaborate with Flore Fockedey for the realisation of the marquee and with Kahle Acoustics, which has previously worked on acoustic projects at the Centre of Fine Arts.

Kristiaan Borret, Master Architect:
"More than 90 candidates were attracted by the open call. The winning competition design certainly lives up to the challenge, as it is at once bold and sophisticated: the symmetrical form inscribes itself in the powerful geometry of Horta's architecture, but the materials are soft in contrast to the existing marble with its harsh acoustics. A poetic intervention, respectful yet a sign of the times."